Xaranna Okavango Delta Camp

Xaranna Okavango Delta Lodge, like its sister lodge Xudum, occupies an island reserve amidst the seasonal and permanent waterways of the Okavango Delta. The channels, lagoons and floodplains are explored mainly by mokoro (traditional dugout canoe) and by motorboat when water levels permit. The lack of sizeable dry land restricts lengthy game drives, particularly during the annual flood from around March to September, and limits stable wildlife concentrations. With only nine tents, Xaranna focuses on exclusivity, pampering and offering its guests a memorable water and wilderness experience.

Due to its remote location and watery surroundings, getting to Xaranna requires an approximately one hour transfer by 4WD vehicle and boat from the nearest airstrip. This provides an introduction to the beauty of the area and a chance to see some wildlife. On any given transfer, one can spot a variety of birdlife and share the channels with curious elephants.

A floating jetty leads up to the lodge’s split-level main area, with dining room to one side and an elevated lounge to the other. Both have wooden floors, canvas roofs and are open-sided to maximize the sweeping views out across the channels. Steps off the dining room lead to a sandy open air firepit with camp chairs, and a well-stocked curio shop is reached via a walkway to the rear.

The nine tented rooms are well spaced along sandy pathways either side of the main area, providing privacy and unhindered views of the surroundings. It’s about a five-minute walk to reach the furthest rooms. The spacious rooms are of a wood, canvas and mesh construction, each with a private outdoor shower, sala (day bed) and plunge pool. Internally they have air conditioning and heating, a bedroom area, ensuite with indoor shower and a luxuriously deep bath, and a separate toilet. The bedroom is furnished with a plush four-poster bed draped in a mosquito net, bedside tables and lamps, fans, a round cushion covered sofa and writing desk. Additional amenities include a digital safe, international 220 volt plug points, hairdryer, bathrobes, slippers, insect repellent and spray, umbrella and toiletries (soap, conditioner, shampoo, body lotion and washing powder for underwear). Snacks and drinking water are also provided.

*For a full list of available activities, the best time of the year to visit, and any other relevant enquiries, please contact a Sister Hippo Travel Consultant!